WO2020160826A1 - Helmet-mounted display system comprising a device for aligning and retracting the display device - Google Patents

Helmet-mounted display system comprising a device for aligning and retracting the display device Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2020160826A1
WO2020160826A1 PCT/EP2019/086056 EP2019086056W WO2020160826A1 WO 2020160826 A1 WO2020160826 A1 WO 2020160826A1 EP 2019086056 W EP2019086056 W EP 2019086056W WO 2020160826 A1 WO2020160826 A1 WO 2020160826A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
display device
helmet
screw
plane
display
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2019/086056
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Joël Baudou
Mathieu BALET
Bruno Aymeric
Original Assignee
Thales
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Thales filed Critical Thales
Priority to US17/422,787 priority Critical patent/US20220128822A1/en
Priority to EP19832648.0A priority patent/EP3921690B1/en
Publication of WO2020160826A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020160826A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
    • G02B27/01—Head-up displays
    • G02B27/017—Head mounted
    • G02B27/0176—Head mounted characterised by mechanical features
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A42—HEADWEAR
    • A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
    • A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
    • A42B3/04—Parts, details or accessories of helmets
    • A42B3/0406—Accessories for helmets
    • A42B3/042—Optical devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A42—HEADWEAR
    • A42B—HATS; HEAD COVERINGS
    • A42B3/00—Helmets; Helmet covers ; Other protective head coverings
    • A42B3/04—Parts, details or accessories of helmets
    • A42B3/0406—Accessories for helmets
    • A42B3/0433—Detecting, signalling or lighting devices
    • A42B3/0453—Signalling devices, e.g. auxiliary brake or indicator lights
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
    • G02B27/01—Head-up displays
    • G02B27/0149—Head-up displays characterised by mechanical features
    • G02B2027/0154—Head-up displays characterised by mechanical features with movable elements
    • G02B2027/0156—Head-up displays characterised by mechanical features with movable elements with optionally usable elements
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
    • G02B27/01—Head-up displays
    • G02B27/0149—Head-up displays characterised by mechanical features
    • G02B2027/0154—Head-up displays characterised by mechanical features with movable elements
    • G02B2027/0159—Head-up displays characterised by mechanical features with movable elements with mechanical means other than scaning means for positioning the whole image
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
    • G02B27/01—Head-up displays
    • G02B27/017—Head mounted
    • G02B2027/0178—Eyeglass type
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
    • G02B27/01—Head-up displays
    • G02B27/0179—Display position adjusting means not related to the information to be displayed
    • G02B2027/0181—Adaptation to the pilot/driver

Definitions

  • Helmet visualization system comprising a device for aligning and retracting the visualization device
  • the technical field of the invention is that of helmet display systems for airplane or helicopter pilots. It is particularly, but not exclusively, applicable to the field of pupil expansion combiner visualization devices.
  • a display system essentially comprises a display device and a helmet position detection device.
  • the function of the viewing device is to provide the user with a collimated image superimposed on the exterior landscape.
  • the superposition is provided by an optical element called a combiner. This can be pupil expansion.
  • the display device worn must be as light and as small as possible so as not to degrade the comfort of the pilot and to facilitate its integration on the head.
  • One way to lighten the optics is to reduce the area in which the entire image is visible, known as the "eye box” or "eye box”.
  • the minimum dimension of the eye box is about 10 millimeters by 10 millimeters in order to accommodate the diameter of the pupil, which can exceed 5 millimeters in low light, and its displacement when the user looks at the edges of the eye.
  • 'image typically the center of the pupil describes an arc of a circle of 5.2 millimeters for an aim at 30 °.
  • This eye box dimension is insufficient to ensure that the eye is sufficiently well centered in it to see the entire image. Indeed, the distance between the two eyes of the user varies from 54 to 72 millimeters approximately in the horizontal plane and the pupil-vertex height varies from 100 to 130 millimeters approximately in the vertical plane. To these anthropometric variations, we must add the variations in helmet shape and size, the initial positioning faults of the helmet or of the head-restraint device and its possible sliding in flight.
  • the viewing device generally has settings in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction. These adjustments can be made by means of slides with knurled screw drive as in night vision devices or simply by sliding the installation plane of the viewing device on the receiving plane on the helmet, the maintenance being ensured, for example, by a tightening screw through a hole with a clearance corresponding to the desired adjustment stroke.
  • the position detection device has several uses. It allows the image displayed by the viewing device to be readjusted. It enables a number of systems on board the aircraft, such as certain imaging sensors or certain weapon systems, to be controlled. For example, in the case of augmented reality applications, to display a horizon line or a synthetic airstrip, it is necessary to superimpose the synthetic image on the real image with great precision.
  • the posture detection device is installed on the helmet and determines the position of the helmet relative to the aircraft and relative to the earth using optical, magnetic or inertial references integrated into the cockpit.
  • the image must be corrected for the relative position between the posture detection and the display and in particular take into account the actual position after adjustment.
  • the accuracy of superimposing the synthetic image on the outside world usually several tens of meters away, depends to a large extent on the accuracy of determining the angles of the display device relative to the posture detection device.
  • the display device also integrates the position detection device, so the relative position is known and determined during manufacture and there is no variation with the adjustment of the position of the display in front of the eye.
  • most augmented reality glasses implement a solution of this type, which is compact but also not very precise.
  • the vertical and horizontal adjustment of the display device by slides has a mass and a significant size.
  • slides of the type that exist to ensure the settings of night vision binoculars are not precise enough, not rigid enough and their play is too great.
  • the mechanical structure connecting the display device to the posture detection device is generally made of plastic or composite and is
  • electromechanical micro-devices used as angle sensors which can be integrated into each of the devices in order to determine their relative position, but they require additional wiring and processing as well as regular calibration, which increases the complexity of the system.
  • the combiner or the complete device must be able to disengage from the face in order to be able to put on and take off the helmet. This additional mechanism should not compromise the precision of superposition.
  • Patent US2012120482 entitled “Modular day mode / night mode helmet-mounted display” presents a helmet display system which does not have the above drawbacks.
  • a perspective view of this system produced according to patent US2012120482 is shown in Figure 1. The same view is shown exploded in Figure 2 so as to better see certain elements.
  • This viewing system consists of a helmet, the visor of which is removed and replaced by a mechanical structure 1 made of composite material receiving the posture detection device 2 on the left and the viewing device 3 in front of the right eye of the user.
  • connection between the display device and the mechanical structure is constituted by a vertical plane 4 having an oblong slot with a vertical axis 5 traversed by a screw 6 which compresses a spring 7 providing the frictional force necessary to hold the display device in position.
  • the screw 6 slides in the oblong slot 5 for vertical alignment of the display device 3 in front of the eye.
  • the display device 3 pivots around the axis of the screw 6 to ensure its lateral alignment or its release.
  • the registration of the synthetic image is carried out by aiming for a harmonized reference with the aircraft.
  • This alignment reference is made by a telescope comprising a collimated staff, known by the acronym "BRU”, meaning "Boresight Reference Unit”.
  • the vertical and horizontal alignment compensates for the deformation of the mechanical structure supporting the viewing device and the position detection device mounted on the helmet and any deformation of the helmet placed on the head.
  • the rotation or roll alignment also compensates for the deformations of the mechanical structure and the rotational timing of the viewing device centered horizontally in the eye box.
  • This operation is performed in the maintenance mode of the display device and must be performed each time the system is started. Likewise, after each manipulation of the display device on the head, the pilot must resume the image rotation because there is no mechanism for memorizing the initial position.
  • the helmet display system according to the invention does not have the above drawbacks. It includes a device for aligning and retracting the sufficiently reliable and precise display device to be replaced without requiring mechanical or optical adjustment. In addition, this mechanical device is simple, light and compact.
  • the invention relates to a helmet display system comprising a helmet shell and a mechanical hoop mounted on the front part of said shell, the mechanical hoop comprising:
  • said holding and adjustment means consisting of:
  • a screw-spring assembly which secures and adjusts the viewing device on the plane support, the screw passing through the oblong slot and being fixed in a mechanical structure of the viewing device, the viewing device being able to rotate with friction around the axis of the screw so as to make it retractable;
  • the display system comprises a means for adjusting the roll and replacing the display device, said means for adjusting and replacing it being constituted:
  • the mechanical arch comprises an electrical system for detecting contact of the knurled screw with the second laying plane.
  • the mechanical hoop comprises a mechanical locking system for the knurled screw on the second laying plane.
  • the mechanical hoop comprises a locking system by magnetization of the knurled screw on the second laying plane.
  • the display device comprises an optical combiner with pupil expansion.
  • the position detection device is an optical camera device.
  • the helmet display device comprising a display
  • the helmet display system comprises a graphics computer comprising a function for dimensioning the size of the image as a function of the inclination of the display device when the latter is in the position of use.
  • the viewing system comprises a movable visor mounted on the mechanical arch, said visor covering the viewing device in the low position and being located on the top of the shell in the high position.
  • FIG.1 is a perspective view of a helmet display system according to the prior art
  • FIG.2 shows an exploded perspective view of the helmet display system of Figure 1;
  • FIG.3 shows an exploded perspective front view of the mechanical arch and the associated viewing device according to the invention
  • FIG.4 shows an exploded perspective rear view of the mechanical arch and the associated viewing device according to the invention
  • FIG.5 shows a front view of the mechanical arch and the associated viewing device according to the invention
  • FIG.6 shows the principle of sizing the synthetic image displayed in the display device
  • FIG.7 shows a front perspective view of the display system according to the invention mounted on a helmet, the visor being lowered;
  • FIG.8 shows a perspective front view of the viewing system according to the invention mounted on a helmet, the visor being raised, the device for
  • FIG.9 shows a front perspective view of the viewing system according to the invention mounted on a helmet, the visor being raised, the device for
  • the display system according to the invention essentially comprises a helmet shell 15 and a mechanical hoop 10 mounted on the front part of this shell 15.
  • Figures 3 and 4 show two perspective views of this mechanical hoop 10.
  • Figure 5 shows a front view of the same hoop.
  • the general shape of this arch 10 is a circular arc reinforced by side members 12 and an upper cap 13.
  • This hoop comprises the following elements:
  • a position detection device 20
  • a display device 30 is
  • the two fixing means 11 on the helmet shell are located at both ends of the hoop as seen, for example, in Figure 4.
  • the two fixing and articulation means 14 of the movable visor 16 are located a few centimeters and above and in front of the fixing means 11.
  • the visor 16 is movable in rotation about its axes.
  • the mobile visor has a dual function of visual and mechanical protection.
  • the position detection device 20 has several uses. It allows the image displayed by the viewing device to be readjusted. It enables a number of systems on board the aircraft, such as certain imaging sensors or certain weapon systems, to be controlled.
  • this device is a wide-field, high-resolution micro-camera which detects specific sights arranged at known locations in the cockpit. The position and orientation of the image of these sights helps determine the position and orientation of the camera, and therefore the helmet on which the camera is mounted.
  • the display system according to the invention is not restricted to this single type of position detection.
  • the hoop may also include a means 60 for fixing a binocular support. It is shown in particular in Figures 3 and 5. In these figures, this fastening means is a T-shaped groove arranged in the mechanical structure of the arch. Other arrangements are possible.
  • the display device has three main parts which are a display device, a collimating optic and an optical combiner.
  • the display device includes a flat screen with its source
  • the projection optics ensure the collimation of the diffused image.
  • the combiner superimposes this image on the exterior landscape. It is generally pupil expansion.
  • a pupil expansion combiner is a thin optical plate with flat and parallel faces in which is inserted a plurality of semi-reflecting plates inclined and parallel to one another.
  • the thickness of the combiner is a few millimeters. Thanks to this arrangement, it is possible to obtain, in a small footprint, a pupil of sufficient dimensions for observation.
  • the distance separating the combiner from the eye is of the order of 25 millimeters.
  • the first mechanical assembly 40 for fixing and adjusting the display device has a triple function. It keeps the viewing device on the mechanical arch. It ensures the vertical translation adjustment of the viewing device and allows the retraction of the viewing device by rotation.
  • the vertical plane 41 comprises a vertical plane support 41 comprising an oblong slot 42 arranged in the mechanical structure of the arch.
  • the vertical plane 41 is
  • the display device is held in position by adhesion thanks to a spring 44 compressed by the screw 43 on an internal surface parallel to the vertical plane 41 of the mechanical structure.
  • the viewing device 30 is guided precisely in its movement in the oblong lumen 42, both in translation and in rotation, thanks to an adjustment of the cylindrical boss 45 associated with the viewing device with a small clearance in the oblong lumen 42.
  • the clearance is, for example, of type H7g6 according to ISO standards for mechanical adjustment.
  • the frictional force is adjusted by tightening the screw 43 and compressing the spring 44 so that the movement of the viewing device 30 is achievable with one hand.
  • the spring 44 consists of conical washers mounted in series so as to reduce the bulk and the mass of the spring 44.
  • the force of the spring 44 on the structure is distributed over a large area thanks to a washer 46 on the internal face of the vertical plane 41 and in support of the display device on the external face of this same vertical plane 41.
  • the coefficient of friction of the materials of the mechanical structure and of the display device as well as the contacting surfaces allow oscillation of the display device around the axis of its boss 45 without modifying the vertical adjustment of the control device.
  • visualization is tolerable because it does not cause loss of image, the eye always being in the eye box, and does not modify the angular position of the viewing device.
  • the roll adjustment performing the horizontal or lateral centering of the eye box of the viewing device in front of the pilot's eye is adjusted using a fine-pitch knurled screw 51 attached to the viewing device 30 and in abutment on a vertical plane 50 normal to the laying plane 41 of the mechanical structure of the arch and parallel to the oblong slot 42.
  • the end 52 of the stop screw 51 is spherical so as to control the contact zone of the screw 51 on the plane 50 during the rotation of the latter around its axis and around the pivot 45 of the
  • the angular precision of the roll setting depends on the play between the boss 45 and the oblong slot 42 and on the distance of the stop screw 51 relative to the boss 45. The play therefore be minimized and the distance maximized.
  • Maintaining the stop screw 52 in contact against the vertical plane 50 is therefore fundamental. In a first embodiment, it is produced by friction and adhesion between the viewing device and the mechanical structure of the arch at the level of the plane 50.
  • this contact can be provided by an additional mechanical device.
  • this additional device can be a retractable locking of the stop screw 52 on the vertical plane.
  • spherical stop screw is locked against the vertical plane by a floating spring. This spring is separated by the spherical shape of the screw during the release pivoting of the display device.
  • this additional device is produced by a bistable pivot 45.
  • the pivot is decoupled from the vertical translation adjustment and a torsion spring ensures contact of the stop screw against the vertical plane.
  • the position released from the viewing device is provided by a retractable locking finger.
  • the spring and the locking finger can be replaced by magnets located on the vertical plane 50 and on the stop of the disengaged position of the display device.
  • contact detection can be provided by an electrical signal.
  • the stop screw 51 and the vertical plane 50 are then electrical conductors and a signal is transmitted to the system which displays the information in the display device when the ignition is off and / or on.
  • the stop screw 51 is knurled and easily accessible to facilitate adjustment when the display device displays a synthetic image to aid in the centering of the eye box on the pilot's eye.
  • the height between the pivot produced by the boss 45 and the eye is as large as possible in order to limit the amplitude of the roll image correction of the viewing device 30 which is dependent on the inter-pupillary distance . This height is limited by the proximity to the helmet visor and its lifting kinematics.
  • the small amplitude of the rotation of the display device makes it possible to conserve as much as possible of the rectangular field of the synthetic image.
  • the synthetic image is composed of symbols linked to the visual in the head frame and symbols or video images linked to the outside world in the terrestrial frame.
  • the size of the synthetic image is resized so that its outlines do not disturb the perception and orientation of the head. This point is illustrated in the three diagrams in figure 6.
  • the first diagram, on the left of FIG. 6, represents the total field C of the display of the viewing device.
  • the second diagram, in the center of figure 6, represents the minimum and maximum inclinations of this display when the display device is inclined by means of its knurled screw to the left or to the right in order to compensate for the differences between the pupillary distances of users.
  • the useful field C of the image on the display must be able to display an upright image for these extreme fields. It is therefore at best equal to the intersection of the two fields C- and C +. It is represented by a hexagon in the diagram to the right of figure 6.
  • Figures 7, 8 and 9 respectively show: a first perspective front view of the viewing system according to the invention mounted on a helmet, the visor being lowered; a second perspective front view of the display system mounted on a helmet, the visor being raised, the display device being in the functional position; a third perspective front view of the viewing system according to the invention mounted on a helmet, the visor being raised, the viewing device being in the retracted position.
  • the display system according to the invention has many
  • the mass added to the helmet by the additional adjustment means is very low and the size of the display device is not significantly changed.
  • the precision of the device is guaranteed by the adjustments of the pivot in the oblong slot, the parallelism of the reference plane with the oblong slot and the distance between the pivot and the stop.
  • the knurled stop screw is easily accessible for adjustment when the display device displays a synthetic image to aid in centering the eye box on the pilot's eye.

Abstract

The technical field of the invention is that of helmet-mounted display systems comprising a front mechanical arch (10) comprising a display device (30) and a means (40) for holding and adjusting the display device in the vertical plane, the means consisting of a first vertical support surface (41) comprising an oblong port (42) and a screw (43)/spring (44) assembly, the screw passing through the oblong port and being fastened in a mechanical structure of the display device, the display device being capable of rotating in such a way as to make it retractable. The display system according to the invention comprises a means for roll adjustment and repositioning of the display device, the adjustment means consisting of a second vertical support surface (50), normal to the first support surface, and a knurl screw (51) attached to the mechanical structure of the display device, the end (52) of the screw resting on the second support surface when the display device is in the use position.

Description

Système de visualisation de casque comportant un dispositif d’alignement et d’escamotage du dispositif de visualisation Helmet visualization system comprising a device for aligning and retracting the visualization device
Description Description
[0001 ] Le domaine technique de l’invention est celui des systèmes de visualisation de casque pour pilotes d’avion ou d’hélicoptère. Il s’applique tout particulièrement, mais non exclusivement au domaine des dispositifs de visualisation à combineur à expansion de pupille. [0001] The technical field of the invention is that of helmet display systems for airplane or helicopter pilots. It is particularly, but not exclusively, applicable to the field of pupil expansion combiner visualization devices.
[0002] Un système de visualisation comporte essentiellement un dispositif de visualisation et un dispositif de détection de position de casque. [0002] A display system essentially comprises a display device and a helmet position detection device.
[0003] La fonction du dispositif de visualisation est de fournir à l’utilisateur une image collimatée en superposition sur le paysage extérieur. La superposition est assurée par un élément optique appelé combineur. Celui-ci peut être à expansion de pupille. [0003] The function of the viewing device is to provide the user with a collimated image superimposed on the exterior landscape. The superposition is provided by an optical element called a combiner. This can be pupil expansion.
[0004] Le dispositif de visualisation porté doit être aussi léger et aussi petit que possible pour ne pas dégrader le confort du pilote et faciliter son intégration sur la tête. Un moyen d’alléger l’optique est de réduire la zone dans laquelle la totalité de l’image est visible, connue sous le terme de « boite à œil » ou « eye-box ». [0004] The display device worn must be as light and as small as possible so as not to degrade the comfort of the pilot and to facilitate its integration on the head. One way to lighten the optics is to reduce the area in which the entire image is visible, known as the "eye box" or "eye box".
Généralement, la dimension minimale de la boite à œil est d’environ 10 millimètres par 10 millimètres afin d’intégrer le diamètre de la pupille, qui peut dépasser 5 millimètres par faible luminosité, et son déplacement lorsque l’utilisateur regarde les bords de l’image, typiquement le centre de la pupille décrit un arc de cercle de 5,2 millimètres pour une visée à 30°. Generally, the minimum dimension of the eye box is about 10 millimeters by 10 millimeters in order to accommodate the diameter of the pupil, which can exceed 5 millimeters in low light, and its displacement when the user looks at the edges of the eye. 'image, typically the center of the pupil describes an arc of a circle of 5.2 millimeters for an aim at 30 °.
[0005] Cette dimension de boite à œil est insuffisante pour garantir que l’œil soit suffisamment bien centré dans celle-ci pour voir la totalité de l’image. En effet, la distance entre les deux yeux de l’utilisateur varie de 54 à 72 millimètres environ dans le plan horizontal et la hauteur pupille-vertex varie de 100 à 130 millimètres environ dans le plan vertical. A ces variations anthropométriques, il faut ajouter les variations de forme et de taille de casque, les défauts de positionnement initial du casque ou du dispositif de maintien sur la tête et son glissement possible en vol. [0005] This eye box dimension is insufficient to ensure that the eye is sufficiently well centered in it to see the entire image. Indeed, the distance between the two eyes of the user varies from 54 to 72 millimeters approximately in the horizontal plane and the pupil-vertex height varies from 100 to 130 millimeters approximately in the vertical plane. To these anthropometric variations, we must add the variations in helmet shape and size, the initial positioning faults of the helmet or of the head-restraint device and its possible sliding in flight.
[0006] Pour pallier ces écarts entre la dimension de la boite à œil et les variations morphologiques, le dispositif de visualisation dispose généralement de réglages dans la direction verticale et dans la direction horizontale. Ces réglages peuvent être réalisé au moyen de glissières avec entrainement par vis moletée comme dans les dispositifs de vision nocturne ou simplement par glissement du plan de pose du dispositif de visualisation sur le plan recevant sur le casque, le maintien étant assuré, par exemple, par une vis de serrage au travers d’un trou avec un jeu correspondant à la course de réglage souhaité. [0006] To overcome these differences between the size of the eye box and the morphological variations, the viewing device generally has settings in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction. These adjustments can be made by means of slides with knurled screw drive as in night vision devices or simply by sliding the installation plane of the viewing device on the receiving plane on the helmet, the maintenance being ensured, for example, by a tightening screw through a hole with a clearance corresponding to the desired adjustment stroke.
[0007] Le dispositif de détection de position a plusieurs utilités. Il permet de recaler l’image affichée par le dispositif de visualisation. Il permet d’asservir un certain nombre de systèmes embarqués sur l’aéronef, tels que certains capteurs d’imagerie ou certains systèmes d’arme. Par exemple, dans le cas d’applications de réalité augmentée, pour afficher une ligne d’horizon ou une piste d’atterrissage synthétique, il est nécessaire de superposer l’image synthétique à l’image réelle avec une grande précision. [0007] The position detection device has several uses. It allows the image displayed by the viewing device to be readjusted. It enables a number of systems on board the aircraft, such as certain imaging sensors or certain weapon systems, to be controlled. For example, in the case of augmented reality applications, to display a horizon line or a synthetic airstrip, it is necessary to superimpose the synthetic image on the real image with great precision.
[0008] Le dispositif de détection de posture est installé sur le casque et détermine la position du casque par rapport à l’aéronef et par rapport à la terre grâce à des références optiques, magnétiques ou inertielles intégrées au cockpit. Cette [0008] The posture detection device is installed on the helmet and determines the position of the helmet relative to the aircraft and relative to the earth using optical, magnetic or inertial references integrated into the cockpit. This
information est transmise à un calculateur qui modifie l’image présentée en fonction de la posture du casque et qui la transmet au dispositif d’affichage. information is transmitted to a computer which modifies the image presented according to the posture of the helmet and which transmits it to the display device.
[0009] Pour obtenir la superposition de l’image synthétique, l’image doit être corrigée de la position relative entre la détection de posture et l’affichage et notamment prendre en compte la position réelle après réglage. La précision de superposition de l’image synthétique sur le monde extérieur, généralement situé à plusieurs dizaines des mètres, dépend pour une bonne partie de la précision de détermination des angles du dispositif d’affichage par rapport au dispositif de détection de posture. [0009] To obtain the superposition of the synthetic image, the image must be corrected for the relative position between the posture detection and the display and in particular take into account the actual position after adjustment. The accuracy of superimposing the synthetic image on the outside world, usually several tens of meters away, depends to a large extent on the accuracy of determining the angles of the display device relative to the posture detection device.
[0010] Dans l’idéal, le dispositif d’affichage intègre également le dispositif de détection de position, ainsi la position relative est connue et déterminée à la fabrication et il n’y a pas de variation avec le réglage de la position de l’affichage devant l’œil. Par exemple, la plupart des lunettes de réalité augmentée mettent en œuvre une solution de ce type, peu encombrante mais également peu précise. [0010] Ideally, the display device also integrates the position detection device, so the relative position is known and determined during manufacture and there is no variation with the adjustment of the position of the display in front of the eye. For example, most augmented reality glasses implement a solution of this type, which is compact but also not very precise.
[0011 ] Mais, sur un casque, les encombrements du dispositif d’affichage et du dispositif de détection de posture ainsi que la disposition des références du cockpit ne permettent généralement pas d’associer ces deux dispositifs. Il est donc nécessaire de faire des réglages. But, on a helmet, the dimensions of the display device and the posture detection device as well as the arrangement of the cockpit references do not generally allow these two devices to be combined. It is therefore necessary to make adjustments.
[0012] Le réglage vertical et horizontal du dispositif d’affichage par des glissières présente une masse et un encombrement important. Par exemple, les glissières du type de celles qui existent pour assurer les réglages des jumelles de vision de nuit ne sont pas assez précises, pas assez rigides et leur jeu est trop important. [0012] The vertical and horizontal adjustment of the display device by slides has a mass and a significant size. For example, slides of the type that exist to ensure the settings of night vision binoculars are not precise enough, not rigid enough and their play is too great.
[0013] La structure mécanique liant le dispositif d’affichage au dispositif de détection de posture est généralement en matière plastique ou en composite et est [0013] The mechanical structure connecting the display device to the posture detection device is generally made of plastic or composite and is
insuffisamment rigide pour assurer la précision de quelques milliradians requise pour l’alignement de l’image synthétique sur l’image réelle. insufficiently rigid to provide the precision of a few milliradians required for alignment of the synthetic image to the actual image.
[0014] Il existe des micro-dispositifs électromécaniques utilisés comme capteurs d’angles qui peuvent être intégrés à chacun des dispositifs afin de déterminer leur position relative mais ils nécessitent un câblage et un traitement supplémentaire ainsi qu’une calibration régulière, ce qui augmente la complexité du système. [0014] There are electromechanical micro-devices used as angle sensors which can be integrated into each of the devices in order to determine their relative position, but they require additional wiring and processing as well as regular calibration, which increases the complexity of the system.
[0015] Par ailleurs, dans le cas d’un dispositif d’affichage à combineur ou à lame à expansion de pupille, le combineur ou le dispositif complet doit pouvoir se dégager du visage afin de pouvoir mettre et retirer le casque. Ce mécanisme supplémentaire ne doit pas grever la précision de superposition. [0015] Furthermore, in the case of a display device with a combiner or a pupil expansion blade, the combiner or the complete device must be able to disengage from the face in order to be able to put on and take off the helmet. This additional mechanism should not compromise the precision of superposition.
[0016] Pour résoudre ce problème d’ajustement et de précision, différentes solutions techniques ont été proposées. Le brevet US2012120482 intitulé « Modular day mode/night mode helmet-mounted display » présente un système de visualisation de casque qui ne présente pas les inconvénients précédents. Une vue en perspective de ce système réalisé selon le brevet US2012120482 est représentée sur la figure 1. La même vue est représentée en éclaté sur la figure 2 de façon à mieux voir certains éléments. [0016] To resolve this problem of adjustment and precision, various technical solutions have been proposed. Patent US2012120482 entitled “Modular day mode / night mode helmet-mounted display” presents a helmet display system which does not have the above drawbacks. A perspective view of this system produced according to patent US2012120482 is shown in Figure 1. The same view is shown exploded in Figure 2 so as to better see certain elements.
[0017] Ce système de visualisation est constitué d’un casque dont la visière est déposée et remplacée par une structure mécanique 1 en matériau composite recevant le dispositif de détection de posture 2 sur la gauche et le dispositif de visualisation 3 devant l’œil droit de l’utilisateur. This viewing system consists of a helmet, the visor of which is removed and replaced by a mechanical structure 1 made of composite material receiving the posture detection device 2 on the left and the viewing device 3 in front of the right eye of the user.
[0018] La liaison entre le dispositif d’affichage et la structure mécanique est constituée par un plan vertical 4 comportant une lumière oblongue d’axe vertical 5 traversée par une vis 6 qui comprime un ressort 7 assurant l’effort de frottement nécessaire au maintien en position du dispositif d’affichage. La vis 6 coulisse dans la lumière oblongue 5 pour l’alignement vertical du dispositif d’affichage 3 devant l’œil. Le dispositif d’affichage 3 pivote autour de l’axe de la vis 6 pour assurer son alignement latéral ou son dégagement. The connection between the display device and the mechanical structure is constituted by a vertical plane 4 having an oblong slot with a vertical axis 5 traversed by a screw 6 which compresses a spring 7 providing the frictional force necessary to hold the display device in position. The screw 6 slides in the oblong slot 5 for vertical alignment of the display device 3 in front of the eye. The display device 3 pivots around the axis of the screw 6 to ensure its lateral alignment or its release.
[0019] Le recalage de l’image synthétique est réalisé en visant une référence harmonisée avec l’aéronef. Cette référence d’alignement est réalisée par une lunette comportant une mire collimatée, connue sous l’acronyme « BRU », signifiant « Boresight Reference Unit ». [0019] The registration of the synthetic image is carried out by aiming for a harmonized reference with the aircraft. This alignment reference is made by a telescope comprising a collimated staff, known by the acronym "BRU", meaning "Boresight Reference Unit".
[0020] Le recalage de l’image synthétique est alors réalisé par le pilote qui déplace l’image synthétique en vertical, en horizontal, et en rotation, jusqu’à obtenir la superposition de l’image synthétique sur la mire harmonisée. [0020] The registration of the synthetic image is then carried out by the pilot who moves the synthetic image vertically, horizontally, and in rotation, until the synthetic image is superimposed on the harmonized pattern.
[0021 ] L’alignement vertical et horizontal compense la déformation de la structure mécanique supportant le dispositif de visualisation et celui de détection de position montée sur le casque et les éventuelles déformations du casque mis en place sur la tête. L’alignement en rotation ou en roulis compense également les déformations de la structure mécanique et le calage en rotation du dispositif de visualisation centré horizontalement dans la boite à œil. [0021] The vertical and horizontal alignment compensates for the deformation of the mechanical structure supporting the viewing device and the position detection device mounted on the helmet and any deformation of the helmet placed on the head. The rotation or roll alignment also compensates for the deformations of the mechanical structure and the rotational timing of the viewing device centered horizontally in the eye box.
[0022] Cette opération est réalisée dans le mode de maintenance du dispositif de visualisation et doit être réalisée à chaque démarrage du système. De même, après chaque manipulation du dispositif de visualisation sur la tête, le pilote doit reprendre la rotation d’image car il n’y a pas de mécanisme de mémorisation de la position initiale. This operation is performed in the maintenance mode of the display device and must be performed each time the system is started. Likewise, after each manipulation of the display device on the head, the pilot must resume the image rotation because there is no mechanism for memorizing the initial position.
[0023] Dans un autre mode d’alignement, la mire collimatée est remplacée par une caméra attachée à l’aéronef qui restitue une image vidéo du monde extérieur dans le dispositif de visualisation. La procédure d’alignement consiste alors à superposer l’image vidéo à l’image extérieure vue au travers du combineur. Ce principe a l’avantage de ne pas nécessiter l’opération d’harmonisation de la référence avec l’aéronef mais l’alignement en cours du vol est délicat et moins précis qu’au sol. Ce mode d’alignement nécessite donc une mémorisation de la position du réglage du dispositif d’affichage. [0023] In another mode of alignment, the collimated target is replaced by a camera attached to the aircraft which reproduces a video image of the outside world in the viewing device. The alignment procedure then consists of superimposing the video image on the external image seen through the combiner. This principle has the advantage of not requiring the operation of harmonizing the reference with the aircraft, but the alignment during flight is delicate and less precise than on the ground. This alignment mode therefore requires memorization of the position of the adjustment of the display device.
[0024] Le système de visualisation de casque selon l’invention ne présente pas les inconvénients précédents. Il comporte un dispositif d’alignement et d’escamotage du dispositif de visualisation suffisamment fiable et précis pour être remis en place sans nécessiter de recalage mécanique ou optique. De plus, ce dispositif mécanique est simple, léger et peu encombrant. The helmet display system according to the invention does not have the above drawbacks. It includes a device for aligning and retracting the sufficiently reliable and precise display device to be replaced without requiring mechanical or optical adjustment. In addition, this mechanical device is simple, light and compact.
[0025] Plus précisément, l’invention concerne un système de visualisation de casque comportant une coque de casque et un arceau mécanique monté sur la partie frontale de ladite coque, l’arceau mécanique comportant : [0025] More specifically, the invention relates to a helmet display system comprising a helmet shell and a mechanical hoop mounted on the front part of said shell, the mechanical hoop comprising:
un dispositif de détection de position fixe ; a fixed position detection device;
un dispositif de visualisation ; a display device;
un moyen de maintien et de réglage dans le plan vertical du dispositif de a means for maintaining and adjusting in the vertical plane of the device
visualisation, ledit moyen de maintien et de réglage étant constitué : display, said holding and adjustment means consisting of:
d’un premier plan de pose vertical disposé dans la partie frontale de l’arceau et perpendiculaire au plan sagittal de la coque, ledit appui plan comportant une lumière oblongue ; of a first vertical laying plane arranged in the front part of the arch and perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the shell, said plane support comprising an oblong slot;
d’un ensemble vis-ressort qui assure la fixation et le réglage du dispositif de visualisation sur l’appui plan, la vis traversant la lumière oblongue et étant fixée dans une structure mécanique du dispositif de visualisation, le dispositif de visualisation pouvant tourner avec frottement autour de l’axe de la vis de façon à le rendre escamotable ; a screw-spring assembly which secures and adjusts the viewing device on the plane support, the screw passing through the oblong slot and being fixed in a mechanical structure of the viewing device, the viewing device being able to rotate with friction around the axis of the screw so as to make it retractable;
caractérisé en ce que le système de visualisation comporte un moyen de réglage en roulis et de remise en place du dispositif de visualisation, ledit moyen de réglage et de remise en place étant constitué : characterized in that the display system comprises a means for adjusting the roll and replacing the display device, said means for adjusting and replacing it being constituted:
d’un second plan de pose vertical, normal au premier plan de pose ; a second vertical laying plane, normal to the first laying plane;
d’une vis moletée à extrémité sphérique attachée à la structure mécanique du dispositif de visualisation, l’axe de la vis moletée étant perpendiculaire à l’axe vis- ressort et dans un plan horizontal, l’extrémité de la vis reposant sur le second plan de pose en position d’utilisation du dispositif de visualisation. a knurled screw with a spherical end attached to the mechanical structure of the viewing device, the axis of the knurled screw being perpendicular to the screw-spring axis and in a horizontal plane, the end of the screw resting on the second installation plane in the use position of the display device.
[0026] Avantageusement, l’arceau mécanique comporte un système électrique de détection de contact de la vis moletée avec le second plan de pose. [0026] Advantageously, the mechanical arch comprises an electrical system for detecting contact of the knurled screw with the second laying plane.
[0027] Avantageusement, l’arceau mécanique comporte un système de verrouillage mécanique de la vis moletée sur le second plan de pose. [0028] Avantageusement, l’arceau mécanique comporte un système de verrouillage par aimantation de la vis moletée sur le second plan de pose. Advantageously, the mechanical hoop comprises a mechanical locking system for the knurled screw on the second laying plane. Advantageously, the mechanical hoop comprises a locking system by magnetization of the knurled screw on the second laying plane.
[0029] Avantageusement, le dispositif de visualisation comporte un combineur optique à expansion de pupille. [0029] Advantageously, the display device comprises an optical combiner with pupil expansion.
[0030] Avantageusement, le dispositif de détection de position est un dispositif optique à caméra. [0030] Advantageously, the position detection device is an optical camera device.
[0031 ] Avantageusement, le dispositif de visualisation de casque comportant un afficheur, le système de visualisation de casque comporte un calculateur graphique comprenant une fonction de dimensionnement de la taille de l’image fonction de l’inclinaison du dispositif de visualisation lorsque celui-ci est en position d’utilisation. Advantageously, the helmet display device comprising a display, the helmet display system comprises a graphics computer comprising a function for dimensioning the size of the image as a function of the inclination of the display device when the latter is in the position of use.
[0032] Avantageusement, le système de visualisation comporte une visière mobile montée sur l’arceau mécanique, ladite visière couvrant en position basse le dispositif de visualisation et étant située sur le haut de la coque en position haute. [0032] Advantageously, the viewing system comprises a movable visor mounted on the mechanical arch, said visor covering the viewing device in the low position and being located on the top of the shell in the high position.
[0033] Avantageusement, l’arceau mécanique comporte des moyens de fixation d’un support de jumelles. [0033] Advantageously, the mechanical arch comprises means for fixing a binocular support.
[0034] Les dessins annexés illustrent l’invention : [0034] The accompanying drawings illustrate the invention:
[0035] [Fig.1 ] représente une vue en perspective d’un système de visualisation de casque selon l’art antérieur ; [0035] [Fig.1] is a perspective view of a helmet display system according to the prior art;
[0036] [Fig.2] représente une vue en perspective éclatée du système de visualisation de casque de la figure 1 ; [0036] [Fig.2] shows an exploded perspective view of the helmet display system of Figure 1;
[0037] [Fig.3] représente une vue en perspective éclatée de face de l’arceau mécanique et du dispositif de visualisation associé selon l’invention ; [0037] [Fig.3] shows an exploded perspective front view of the mechanical arch and the associated viewing device according to the invention;
[0038] [Fig.4] représente une vue en perspective éclatée de dos de l’arceau mécanique et du dispositif de visualisation associé selon l’invention ; [0038] [Fig.4] shows an exploded perspective rear view of the mechanical arch and the associated viewing device according to the invention;
[0039] [Fig.5] représente une vue de face de l’arceau mécanique et du dispositif de visualisation associé selon l’invention ; [0039] [Fig.5] shows a front view of the mechanical arch and the associated viewing device according to the invention;
[0040] [Fig.6] représente le principe de dimensionnement de l’image synthétique affichée dans le dispositif de visualisation ; [0040] [Fig.6] shows the principle of sizing the synthetic image displayed in the display device;
[0041 ] [Fig.7] représente une vue en perspective de face du système de visualisation selon l’invention monté sur casque, la visière étant baissée ; [0042] [Fig.8] représente une vue en perspective de face du système de visualisation selon l’invention monté sur casque, la visière étant relevée, le dispositif de [0041] [Fig.7] shows a front perspective view of the display system according to the invention mounted on a helmet, the visor being lowered; [0042] [Fig.8] shows a perspective front view of the viewing system according to the invention mounted on a helmet, the visor being raised, the device for
visualisation étant en position fonctionnelle ; visualization being in functional position;
[0043] [Fig.9] représente une vue en perspective de face du système de visualisation selon l’invention monté sur casque, la visière étant relevée, le dispositif de [0043] [Fig.9] shows a front perspective view of the viewing system according to the invention mounted on a helmet, the visor being raised, the device for
visualisation étant en position escamotée. display being in the retracted position.
[0044] Le système de visualisation selon l’invention comporte essentiellement une coque 15 de casque et un arceau mécanique 10 monté sur la partie frontale de cette coque 15. The display system according to the invention essentially comprises a helmet shell 15 and a mechanical hoop 10 mounted on the front part of this shell 15.
[0045] A titre d’exemple, les figures 3 et 4 représentent deux vues en perspective de cet arceau mécanique 10. La figure 5 représente une vue de face de ce même arceau. La forme générale de cet arceau 10 est un arc de cercle renforcé par des longerons 12 et une casquette supérieure 13. [0045] For example, Figures 3 and 4 show two perspective views of this mechanical hoop 10. Figure 5 shows a front view of the same hoop. The general shape of this arch 10 is a circular arc reinforced by side members 12 and an upper cap 13.
[0046] Cet arceau comporte les éléments suivants : This hoop comprises the following elements:
Des moyens de fixation 11 sur la coque du casque ; Fastening means 11 on the shell of the helmet;
Des moyens de fixation et d’articulation 14 de la visière mobile 16 ; Fixing and articulation means 14 of the mobile visor 16;
Un dispositif 20 de détection de position ; A position detection device 20;
Un dispositif de visualisation 30 ; A display device 30;
Un premier ensemble mécanique 40 de fixation et de réglage du dispositif de visualisation ; A first mechanical assembly 40 for fixing and adjusting the display device;
Un second ensemble mécanique de réglage et de remise en place du dispositif de visualisation ; A second mechanical assembly for adjusting and replacing the display device;
Un moyen de fixation d’un support de jumelles 60 ; A means of fixing a binocular support 60;
Une visière mobile 16. A movable visor 16.
[0047] Les deux moyens de fixation 11 sur la coque du casque sont situés aux deux extrémités de l’arceau comme on le voit, par exemple, sur la figure 4. The two fixing means 11 on the helmet shell are located at both ends of the hoop as seen, for example, in Figure 4.
[0048] Les deux moyens de fixation et d’articulation 14 de la visière mobile 16 sont situés à quelques centimètres et au-dessus et en avant des moyens de fixation 11. La visière 16 est mobile en rotation autour de ses axes. La visière mobile a une double fonction de protection visuelle et mécanique. The two fixing and articulation means 14 of the movable visor 16 are located a few centimeters and above and in front of the fixing means 11. The visor 16 is movable in rotation about its axes. The mobile visor has a dual function of visual and mechanical protection.
[0049] Le dispositif de détection 20 de position a plusieurs utilités. Il permet de recaler l’image affichée par le dispositif de visualisation. Il permet d’asservir un certain nombre de systèmes embarqués sur l’aéronef, tels que certains capteurs d’imagerie ou certains systèmes d’arme. The position detection device 20 has several uses. It allows the image displayed by the viewing device to be readjusted. It enables a number of systems on board the aircraft, such as certain imaging sensors or certain weapon systems, to be controlled.
[0050] A titre d’exemple, ce dispositif est une micro-caméra à grand champ et haute résolution qui détecte des mires spécifiques disposées à des emplacements connus du cockpit. La position et l’orientation de l’image de ces mires permet de déterminer la position et l’orientation de la caméra et, par conséquent du casque sur lequel la caméra est montée. Bien entendu, le système de visualisation selon l’invention n’est pas restreint à ce seul type de détection de position. [0050] By way of example, this device is a wide-field, high-resolution micro-camera which detects specific sights arranged at known locations in the cockpit. The position and orientation of the image of these sights helps determine the position and orientation of the camera, and therefore the helmet on which the camera is mounted. Of course, the display system according to the invention is not restricted to this single type of position detection.
[0051 ] Il est essentiel que la liaison mécanique entre ce dispositif de détection est le dispositif de visualisation soit la plus rigide possible de façon que la position du casque déterminée par la caméra soit toujours représentative de la position du dispositif de visualisation. It is essential that the mechanical connection between this detection device and the viewing device is as rigid as possible so that the position of the helmet determined by the camera is always representative of the position of the viewing device.
[0052] L’arceau peut également comporter un moyen de fixation 60 d’un support de jumelles. Il est représenté en particulier sur les figures 3 et 5. Sur ces figures, ce moyen de fixation est une rainure en forme de T disposée dans la structure mécanique de l’arceau. D’autres dispositions sont possibles. [0052] The hoop may also include a means 60 for fixing a binocular support. It is shown in particular in Figures 3 and 5. In these figures, this fastening means is a T-shaped groove arranged in the mechanical structure of the arch. Other arrangements are possible.
[0053] Le dispositif de visualisation comporte trois parties principales qui sont un dispositif d’affichage, une optique de collimation et un combineur optique. A titre d’exemple, le dispositif d’affichage comporte un écran plat avec sa source [0053] The display device has three main parts which are a display device, a collimating optic and an optical combiner. For example, the display device includes a flat screen with its source
d’éclairage et sa carte électronique de pilotage. L’optique de projection assure la collimation de l’image diffusée. Le combineur superpose cette image sur le paysage extérieur. Il est généralement à expansion de pupille. lighting and its electronic control card. The projection optics ensure the collimation of the diffused image. The combiner superimposes this image on the exterior landscape. It is generally pupil expansion.
[0054] Un combineur à expansion de pupille est une lame optique mince à faces planes et parallèles dans laquelle est insérée une pluralité de lames semi- réfléchissantes inclinées et parallèles entre elles. L’épaisseur du combineur est de quelques millimètres. Grâce à cette disposition, il est possible d’obtenir, dans un encombrement réduit, une pupille de dimensions suffisantes pour l’observation. La distance séparant le combineur de l’œil est de l’ordre de 25 millimètres. [0055] Le premier ensemble mécanique 40 de fixation et de réglage du dispositif de visualisation a une triple fonction. Il permet de maintenir le dispositif de visualisation sur l’arceau mécanique. Il assure le réglage en translation verticale du dispositif de visualisation et il permet l’escamotage du dispositif de visualisation par rotation. A pupil expansion combiner is a thin optical plate with flat and parallel faces in which is inserted a plurality of semi-reflecting plates inclined and parallel to one another. The thickness of the combiner is a few millimeters. Thanks to this arrangement, it is possible to obtain, in a small footprint, a pupil of sufficient dimensions for observation. The distance separating the combiner from the eye is of the order of 25 millimeters. The first mechanical assembly 40 for fixing and adjusting the display device has a triple function. It keeps the viewing device on the mechanical arch. It ensures the vertical translation adjustment of the viewing device and allows the retraction of the viewing device by rotation.
[0056] Il comprend un appui plan vertical 41 comportant une lumière oblongue 42 disposés dans la structure mécanique de l’arceau. Le plan vertical 41 est It comprises a vertical plane support 41 comprising an oblong slot 42 arranged in the mechanical structure of the arch. The vertical plane 41 is
sensiblement parallèle au plan vertical passant par les deux yeux de l’utilisateur et est normal au plan sagittal. De cette manière, les déplacements du dispositif de visualisation n’entraînent qu’un seul décalage angulaire à compenser qui est le roulis de l’image synthétique. substantially parallel to the vertical plane passing through both eyes of the user and normal to the sagittal plane. In this way, the movements of the display device only cause a single angular offset to compensate, which is the roll of the synthetic image.
[0057] Le dispositif de visualisation est maintenu en position par adhérence grâce à un ressort 44 comprimé par la vis 43 sur une surface interne parallèle au plan vertical 41 de la structure mécanique. Le dispositif de visualisation 30 est guidé précisément dans son déplacement dans la lumière oblongue 42, à la fois en translation et en rotation, grâce à un ajustement du bossage cylindrique 45 associé au dispositif de visualisation avec un faible jeu dans la lumière oblongue 42. Le jeu est, par exemple, du type H7g6 selon les normes ISO d’ajustement mécanique. The display device is held in position by adhesion thanks to a spring 44 compressed by the screw 43 on an internal surface parallel to the vertical plane 41 of the mechanical structure. The viewing device 30 is guided precisely in its movement in the oblong lumen 42, both in translation and in rotation, thanks to an adjustment of the cylindrical boss 45 associated with the viewing device with a small clearance in the oblong lumen 42. The clearance is, for example, of type H7g6 according to ISO standards for mechanical adjustment.
[0058] L’effort de friction est ajusté par le serrage de la vis 43 et la compression du ressort 44 de manière à ce que le déplacement du dispositif de visualisation 30 soit réalisable d’une seule main. Dans ce cas, le ressort 44 est constitué de rondelles coniques montées en série de manière à réduire l’encombrement et la masse du ressort 44. L’effort du ressort 44 sur la structure est réparti sur une large surface grâce à une rondelle 46 sur la face interne du plan vertical 41 et à l’appui du dispositif de visualisation sur la face externe de ce même plan vertical 41. [0058] The frictional force is adjusted by tightening the screw 43 and compressing the spring 44 so that the movement of the viewing device 30 is achievable with one hand. In this case, the spring 44 consists of conical washers mounted in series so as to reduce the bulk and the mass of the spring 44. The force of the spring 44 on the structure is distributed over a large area thanks to a washer 46 on the internal face of the vertical plane 41 and in support of the display device on the external face of this same vertical plane 41.
[0059] Le coefficient de frottement des matériaux de la structure mécanique et du dispositif d’affichage ainsi que les surfaces en contact permettent une oscillation du dispositif d’affichage autour de l’axe de son bossage 45 sans modifier le réglage vertical du dispositif de visualisation 30 lorsque le pilote actionne le dispositif de visualisation en le tenant par l’extrémité basse du combineur optique 31. Un décalage vertical inférieur à 1 millimètre lors de la rotation du dispositif de The coefficient of friction of the materials of the mechanical structure and of the display device as well as the contacting surfaces allow oscillation of the display device around the axis of its boss 45 without modifying the vertical adjustment of the control device. display 30 when the pilot actuates the display device while holding it by the lower end of the optical combiner 31. A vertical offset of less than 1 millimeter during the rotation of the display device.
visualisation est tolérable car il n’entraîne pas de perte d’image, l’œil étant toujours dans la boite à œil, et ne modifie pas la position angulaire du dispositif de visualisation. visualization is tolerable because it does not cause loss of image, the eye always being in the eye box, and does not modify the angular position of the viewing device.
[0060] Le réglage en roulis réalisant le centrage horizontal ou latéral de la boite à œil du dispositif de visualisation devant l’œil du pilote, est ajusté à l’aide d’une vis moletée à pas fin 51 attachée au dispositif de visualisation 30 et en butée sur un plan vertical 50 normal au plan de pose 41 de la structure mécanique de l’arceau et parallèle à la lumière oblongue 42. L’extrémité 52 de la vis butée 51 est sphérique de manière à maîtriser la zone de contact de la vis 51 sur le plan 50 lors de la rotation de celle-ci autour de son axe et autour du pivot 45 du dispositif de The roll adjustment performing the horizontal or lateral centering of the eye box of the viewing device in front of the pilot's eye is adjusted using a fine-pitch knurled screw 51 attached to the viewing device 30 and in abutment on a vertical plane 50 normal to the laying plane 41 of the mechanical structure of the arch and parallel to the oblong slot 42. The end 52 of the stop screw 51 is spherical so as to control the contact zone of the screw 51 on the plane 50 during the rotation of the latter around its axis and around the pivot 45 of the
visualisation et éviter l’usure du plan vertical 50 par les bavures de filetage. visualization and avoid wear of the vertical plane 50 by thread burrs.
[0061 ] Le réglage vertical et le réglage latéral du dispositif de visualisation sont ainsi indépendants. La reprise du réglage vertical en vol ne modifie pas le réglage en roulis tant que la vis butée 51 est en contact avec le plan 50. De la même façon, le repositionnement du dispositif de visualisation après dégagement du visage est fidèle tant que cette vis butée 51 est en contact avec le plan 50. [0061] The vertical adjustment and the lateral adjustment of the display device are thus independent. Resuming the vertical adjustment in flight does not modify the roll adjustment as long as the stop screw 51 is in contact with the plane 50. In the same way, the repositioning of the viewing device after disengaging the face is faithful as long as this stop screw 51 is in contact with plane 50.
[0062] La précision angulaire du calage en roulis dépend du jeu entre le bossage 45 et la lumière oblongue 42 et de la distance de la vis butée 51 par rapport au bossage 45. Le jeu donc être minimisé et la distance maximisée. The angular precision of the roll setting depends on the play between the boss 45 and the oblong slot 42 and on the distance of the stop screw 51 relative to the boss 45. The play therefore be minimized and the distance maximized.
[0063] Le maintien de la vis butée 52 en contact contre le plan vertical 50 est donc fondamental. Dans un premier mode de réalisation, il est réalisé par frottement et adhérence entre le dispositif de visualisation et la structure mécanique de l’arceau au niveau du plan 50. Maintaining the stop screw 52 in contact against the vertical plane 50 is therefore fundamental. In a first embodiment, it is produced by friction and adhesion between the viewing device and the mechanical structure of the arch at the level of the plane 50.
[0064] Dans un second mode de réalisation, ce contact peut être assuré par un dispositif mécanique complémentaire. [0064] In a second embodiment, this contact can be provided by an additional mechanical device.
[0065] A titre de premier exemple, ce dispositif complémentaire peut être un verrouillage escamotable de la vis butée 52 sur le plan vertical. L’extrémité As a first example, this additional device can be a retractable locking of the stop screw 52 on the vertical plane. The end
sphérique de la vis butée est verrouillée contre le plan vertical par un ressort flottant. Ce ressort est écarté par la forme sphérique de la vis lors du pivotement de dégagement du dispositif de visualisation. spherical stop screw is locked against the vertical plane by a floating spring. This spring is separated by the spherical shape of the screw during the release pivoting of the display device.
[0066] A titre de second exemple, ce dispositif complémentaire est réalisé par un pivot 45 bistable. Le pivot est découplé du réglage de translation verticale et un ressort de torsion assure le contact de la vis butée contre le plan vertical. La position dégagée du dispositif de visualisation est assurée par un doigt de verrouillage escamotable. As a second example, this additional device is produced by a bistable pivot 45. The pivot is decoupled from the vertical translation adjustment and a torsion spring ensures contact of the stop screw against the vertical plane. The position released from the viewing device is provided by a retractable locking finger.
[0067] Le ressort et le doigt de verrouillage peuvent être remplacés par des aimants situés sur le plan vertical 50 et sur la butée de position dégagée du dispositif de visualisation. The spring and the locking finger can be replaced by magnets located on the vertical plane 50 and on the stop of the disengaged position of the display device.
[0068] Il est également possible de disposer un moyen de vérification du contact entre la butée et son plan d’appui. Par exemple, la détection du contact peut être assurée par un signal électrique. La vis butée 51 et le plan vertical 50 sont alors des conducteurs électriques et un signal est transmis au système qui affiche l’information dans le dispositif de visualisation lorsque le contact est coupé et/ou établi. It is also possible to have a means of checking the contact between the stop and its support plane. For example, contact detection can be provided by an electrical signal. The stop screw 51 and the vertical plane 50 are then electrical conductors and a signal is transmitted to the system which displays the information in the display device when the ignition is off and / or on.
[0069] La vis butée 51 est moletée et facilement accessible pour faciliter le réglage lorsque le dispositif de visualisation affiche une image synthétique pour aider au centrage de la boite à œil sur l’œil du pilote. [0069] The stop screw 51 is knurled and easily accessible to facilitate adjustment when the display device displays a synthetic image to aid in the centering of the eye box on the pilot's eye.
[0070] La hauteur entre le pivot réalisé par le bossage 45 et l’œil est aussi importante que possible afin de limiter l’amplitude de la correction d’image en roulis du dispositif de visualisation 30 qui est dépendante de l’écart inter pupillaire. Cette hauteur est limitée par la proximité avec la visière du casque et sa cinématique de relèvement. The height between the pivot produced by the boss 45 and the eye is as large as possible in order to limit the amplitude of the roll image correction of the viewing device 30 which is dependent on the inter-pupillary distance . This height is limited by the proximity to the helmet visor and its lifting kinematics.
[0071 ] Pendant les réglages, la faible amplitude de la rotation du dispositif de visualisation permet de conserver la plus grande partie possible du champ rectangulaire de l’image synthétique. En effet, l’image synthétique est composée de symboles liés au visuel dans le repère tête et de symboles ou d’image vidéo liés au monde extérieur dans le repère terrestre. Lors d’une forte inclinaison du dispositif de visualisation 30, la taille de l’image synthétique est redimensionnée afin que ses contours ne perturbent pas la perception et l’orientation de la tête. Ce point est illustré sur les trois schémas de la figure 6. During the adjustments, the small amplitude of the rotation of the display device makes it possible to conserve as much as possible of the rectangular field of the synthetic image. Indeed, the synthetic image is composed of symbols linked to the visual in the head frame and symbols or video images linked to the outside world in the terrestrial frame. When the viewing device 30 is strongly tilted, the size of the synthetic image is resized so that its outlines do not disturb the perception and orientation of the head. This point is illustrated in the three diagrams in figure 6.
[0072] Le premier schéma, à gauche de la figure 6, représente le champ total C de l’afficheur du dispositif de visualisation. Le second schéma, au centre de la figure 6, représente les inclinaisons minimale et maximale de cet afficheur lorsque l’on incline le dispositif de visualisation au moyen de sa vis moletée vers la gauche ou vers la droite de façon à compenser les différences entre les écarts pupillaires des utilisateurs. On note ces champs C- et C+. Le champ utile C de l’image sur l’afficheur doit permettre d’afficher une image droite pour ces champs extrêmes. Il est donc au mieux égal à l’intersection des deux champs C- et C+. Il est représenté par un hexagone sur le schéma à droite de la figure 6. The first diagram, on the left of FIG. 6, represents the total field C of the display of the viewing device. The second diagram, in the center of figure 6, represents the minimum and maximum inclinations of this display when the display device is inclined by means of its knurled screw to the left or to the right in order to compensate for the differences between the pupillary distances of users. We denote these fields C- and C +. The useful field C of the image on the display must be able to display an upright image for these extreme fields. It is therefore at best equal to the intersection of the two fields C- and C +. It is represented by a hexagon in the diagram to the right of figure 6.
[0073] Les figures 7, 8 et 9 représentent respectivement : une première vue en perspective de face du système de visualisation selon l’invention monté sur casque, la visière étant baissée ; une seconde vue en perspective de face du système de visualisation monté sur casque, la visière étant relevée, le dispositif de visualisation étant en position fonctionnelle ; une troisième vue en perspective de face du système de visualisation selon l’invention monté sur casque, la visière étant relevée, le dispositif de visualisation étant en position escamotée. Figures 7, 8 and 9 respectively show: a first perspective front view of the viewing system according to the invention mounted on a helmet, the visor being lowered; a second perspective front view of the display system mounted on a helmet, the visor being raised, the display device being in the functional position; a third perspective front view of the viewing system according to the invention mounted on a helmet, the visor being raised, the viewing device being in the retracted position.
[0074] Le système de visualisation selon l’invention présente de nombreux [0074] The display system according to the invention has many
avantages. Il permet de conserver facilement le réglage latéral du dispositif de visualisation de manière à le repositionner dans sa position initiale avec l’œil centré dans la boite à œil grâce à l’ajout de la butée réglable. benefits. It makes it easy to keep the lateral adjustment of the viewing device so as to reposition it in its initial position with the eye centered in the eye box thanks to the addition of the adjustable stop.
[0075] La masse ajoutée au casque par les moyens de réglages supplémentaires est très faible et l’encombrement du dispositif de visualisation n’est pas sensiblement modifié. The mass added to the helmet by the additional adjustment means is very low and the size of the display device is not significantly changed.
[0076] La précision du dispositif est garantie par les ajustements du pivot dans la lumière oblongue, le parallélisme du plan de référence avec la lumière oblongue et la distance entre le pivot et la butée. The precision of the device is guaranteed by the adjustments of the pivot in the oblong slot, the parallelism of the reference plane with the oblong slot and the distance between the pivot and the stop.
[0077] La vis butée moletée est facilement accessible pour assurer le réglage lorsque le dispositif de visualisation affiche une image synthétique pour aider au centrage de la boite à œil sur l’œil du pilote. [0077] The knurled stop screw is easily accessible for adjustment when the display device displays a synthetic image to aid in centering the eye box on the pilot's eye.

Claims

Revendications Claims
[Revendication 1 ] Système de visualisation de casque comportant une coque (15) de casque et un arceau mécanique (10) monté sur la partie frontale de ladite coque, l’arceau mécanique comportant : [Claim 1] A helmet display system comprising a helmet shell (15) and a mechanical hoop (10) mounted on the front part of said shell, the mechanical hoop comprising:
un dispositif de détection de position (20) fixe ; a fixed position detection device (20);
un dispositif de visualisation (30) ; a display device (30);
un moyen (40) de maintien et de réglage dans le plan vertical du dispositif de visualisation, ledit moyen de maintien et de réglage étant constitué : means (40) for maintaining and adjusting in the vertical plane of the display device, said means for maintaining and adjusting being constituted:
d’un premier plan de pose (41 ) vertical disposé dans la partie frontale de l’arceau et perpendiculaire au plan sagittal de la coque, ledit appui plan comportant une lumière oblongue (42) ; a first vertical laying plane (41) disposed in the front part of the arch and perpendicular to the sagittal plane of the shell, said plane support comprising an oblong slot (42);
d’un ensemble vis (43) - ressort (44) qui assure la fixation et le réglage du dispositif de visualisation sur l’appui plan, la vis traversant la lumière oblongue et étant fixée dans une structure mécanique du dispositif de visualisation, le dispositif de visualisation pouvant tourner avec frottement autour de l’axe (45) de la vis de façon à le rendre escamotable ; a screw (43) - spring (44) assembly which secures and adjusts the display device on the flat support, the screw passing through the oblong slot and being fixed in a mechanical structure of the display device, the device display capable of rotating with friction around the axis (45) of the screw so as to make it retractable;
caractérisé en ce que le système de visualisation comporte un moyen de réglage en roulis et de remise en place du dispositif de visualisation, ledit moyen de réglage et de remise en place étant constitué : characterized in that the display system comprises a means for adjusting the roll and replacing the display device, said means for adjusting and replacing it being constituted:
d’un second plan de pose vertical (50), normal au premier plan de pose ; a second vertical laying plane (50), normal to the first laying plane;
d’une vis moletée (51 ) à extrémité sphérique (52) attachée à la structure mécanique du dispositif de visualisation, l’axe de la vis moletée étant perpendiculaire à l’axe vis- ressort et dans un plan horizontal, l’extrémité de la vis reposant sur le second plan de pose en position d’utilisation du dispositif de visualisation. a knurled screw (51) with a spherical end (52) attached to the mechanical structure of the display device, the axis of the knurled screw being perpendicular to the screw-spring axis and in a horizontal plane, the end of the screw resting on the second installation plane in the position of use of the display device.
[Revendication 2] Système de visualisation de casque selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que l’arceau mécanique comporte un système électrique de détection de contact de la vis moletée avec le second plan de pose. [Claim 2] A helmet display system according to claim 1, characterized in that the mechanical hoop comprises an electrical system for detecting contact of the knurled screw with the second laying plane.
[Revendication 3] Système de visualisation de casque selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que l’arceau mécanique comporte un système de verrouillage mécanique de la vis moletée sur le second plan de pose. [Claim 3] A helmet display system according to claim 1, characterized in that the mechanical hoop comprises a system for mechanically locking the knurled screw on the second laying plane.
[Revendication 4] Système de visualisation de casque selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que l’arceau mécanique comporte un système de verrouillage par aimantation de la vis moletée sur le second plan de pose. [Claim 4] A helmet display system according to claim 1, characterized in that the mechanical hoop comprises a system for locking by magnetization of the knurled screw on the second laying plane.
[Revendication 5] Système de visualisation de casque selon l’une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de visualisation (30) comporte un combineur optique (31 ) à expansion de pupille. [Claim 5] A helmet visualization system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the visualization device (30) comprises an optical combiner (31) with pupil expansion.
[Revendication 6] Système de visualisation de casque selon l’une des [Claim 6] Helmet display system according to one of
revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de détection de position (20) est un dispositif optique à caméra. preceding claims, characterized in that the position detection device (20) is an optical camera device.
[Revendication 7] Système de visualisation de casque selon l’une des [Claim 7] Helmet display system according to one of
revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de visualisation de casque comportant un afficheur, le système de visualisation de casque comporte un calculateur graphique comprenant une fonction de dimensionnement de la taille de l’image fonction de l’inclinaison du dispositif de visualisation lorsque celui-ci est en position d’utilisation. preceding claims, characterized in that the helmet display device comprising a display, the helmet display system comprises a graphics computer comprising a function for dimensioning the size of the image as a function of the inclination of the display device when that - this is in the use position.
[Revendication 8] Système de visualisation de casque selon l’une des [Claim 8] Helmet display system according to one of
revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le système de visualisation comporte une visière mobile (16) montée sur l’arceau mécanique, ladite visière couvrant en position basse le dispositif de visualisation et étant située sur le haut de la coque en position haute. preceding claims, characterized in that the viewing system comprises a movable visor (16) mounted on the mechanical arch, said visor covering in the low position the viewing device and being located on the top of the shell in the high position.
[Revendication 9] Système de visualisation de casque selon l’une des [Claim 9] A helmet display system according to one of
revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l’arceau mécanique comporte des moyens (60) de fixation d’un support de jumelles. preceding claims, characterized in that the mechanical hoop comprises means (60) for fixing a binocular support.
PCT/EP2019/086056 2019-02-07 2019-12-18 Helmet-mounted display system comprising a device for aligning and retracting the display device WO2020160826A1 (en)

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EP19832648.0A EP3921690B1 (en) 2019-02-07 2019-12-18 Helmet-mounted display system comprising a device for aligning and retracting the display device

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FR1901163A FR3092671B1 (en) 2019-02-07 2019-02-07 Helmet display system comprising a device for aligning and retracting the display device

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Citations (5)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2062285A (en) * 1979-11-09 1981-05-20 Elliott Brothers London Ltd Helmet Mounted Sight
EP0671646A1 (en) * 1994-03-08 1995-09-13 Sextant Avionique Device for mechanically fastening a visualization system on a helmet
WO2010045141A1 (en) * 2008-10-15 2010-04-22 Gentex Corporation Apparatus and method for mounting and calibrating a helmet-mounted display
WO2014186682A1 (en) * 2013-05-17 2014-11-20 Gentex Corporation Mount arm for a helmet mounted display
WO2016174355A1 (en) * 2015-04-27 2016-11-03 Zodiac Aerotechnics Protective system for aeroplane pilot

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2062285A (en) * 1979-11-09 1981-05-20 Elliott Brothers London Ltd Helmet Mounted Sight
EP0671646A1 (en) * 1994-03-08 1995-09-13 Sextant Avionique Device for mechanically fastening a visualization system on a helmet
WO2010045141A1 (en) * 2008-10-15 2010-04-22 Gentex Corporation Apparatus and method for mounting and calibrating a helmet-mounted display
US20120120482A1 (en) 2008-10-15 2012-05-17 Gentex Corporation Modular day mode/night mode helment-mounted display
WO2014186682A1 (en) * 2013-05-17 2014-11-20 Gentex Corporation Mount arm for a helmet mounted display
WO2016174355A1 (en) * 2015-04-27 2016-11-03 Zodiac Aerotechnics Protective system for aeroplane pilot

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US20220128822A1 (en) 2022-04-28
FR3092671B1 (en) 2021-07-09
EP3921690A1 (en) 2021-12-15
EP3921690B1 (en) 2023-01-04

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